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Pidgeley out to prove his worth

By Alex Livie

Lenny Pidgeley is looking to prove himself to Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri when he turns out against his parent club for Watford in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

The teenage keeper has been farmed out on a season-long loan deal to Watford as Ranieri feels he needs to accrue experience before challenging for a place at Stamford Bridge.

Pidgeley is unlikely to have been at the forefront of Ranieri's mind this term but he has the perfect opportunity to hog the spotlight at the weekend.

The 19-year-old knows he faces a tough task if he wants to dislodge Carlo Cudicini as number one, but is determined to prove himself to Ranieri.

It would be great to make it at such a big club," said Pidgeley. "Carlo is one of the best keepers in the top flight. All aspects of his game are strong.

"I have to be patient and I know what I've got to work on. I'm a few years from the peak of my career. But I will be going back to Stamford Bridge next season and their goalkeeping coach has been keeping an eye on me.

"I think Ranieri thought it would be good experience for me to go out on loan, and there will be quite a few eyes on me if I do well in this game.

"I feel lucky to be involved in such a massive match at my age and I will be doing my best to make sure Watford go through."